1981 Mazda RX7 Reviews

1981 Mazda RX7 GLS 12b from North America

Summary:

Faults:

General Comments:

It is hard to describe the thrill of the rotary Mazda engine. It is like a giant rubber band like on a model airplane, that when you push the gas pedal just spins and spins. The engine is incredible.

It felt quick. The car was very light and poised. The brakes were excellent. The car looks very sharp, a classic design.

I bought the car for $750, and put around 30,000 miles on it before I sold it because it needed a new clutch. I had a dealer put a new distributor in it for like $168.

The major problem with the car was the oil leaks around the seals, which is a known problem with these cars. The oil would leak and eventually hit a hot part like the exhaust, so it was embarrassing to have a noticeably waft of smoke rise up from the car when it had been driven more than 15 miles. But I was poor and put up with it since it only was noticeable after the car was parked. I do have the money and would consider another one, except for the fact that they are getting old. Therefore parts are harder to find.

The car sits very low, and your seat is only like six inches from the ground.

Tires were cheap since they are smaller rims. The stock rims look great.

1981 Mazda RX7 Series 1 Mark 2 2.3 Rotary petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Exhaust fell off (new ones are £500), all tyres have needed replacing. Windscreen has a crack in it.

General Comments:

Owners club are very helpful, Specialist maintenance people are helpful. Local Mazda Garage does not repair RX7's. Mazda garage that does, asked over £1200.00 for an exhaust, and a new wing will set you back over £500.00. Caveat Emptor. Still, car is superb, and is as much fun to drive as a mini (which means that brake fade is a thing of the past). Drive and enjoy.